Skype 5.8 is the latest version of the popular VoIP application for Windows computers. The app was put up for download yesterday, with features aimed at making video calling more pleasant than before.

The new application release arrives with enhancements that include full HD video calling, Facebook audio and video calling (though only in beta at the moment), and Push to Talk capabilities, among others.

After installing the new Skype 5.8 for Windows, users will be able to make video calls with their friends on Facebook, even if they do not use Skype. All that you will need to do is to select the Facebook contact in your list, and then click “video call.”

Another very useful feature included in the new application release, one that will certainly make gamers rejoice, is Push to Talk.

People who are playing multiple games actually needed a hotkey to toggle microphone muting on a Skype call. They requested it, and Skype responded. The feature is now available in the Windows application.

Users can easily set the “Push to Talk” on the hotkey's selection by going to tools > options > advanced > hotkeys.

But there’s more to it. With the new app version, also comes support for full HD video calling on Skype, which, unfortunately, is determined by the use of a Logitech C920 webcam. You will also need at least a 2 Mbps upload/download speed.

“Now you can make crystal clear video-calls with your loved ones or business contacts by utilizing the latest technology for Skype and Logitech, which is incorporated into the latest update to Skype for Windows and the Logitech C920 webcam,” Skype explains.

“With Logitech c920 the video encoding is done inside the camera which enables full HD or HD video quality with older computers.”

Another important addition to Skype 5.8 for Windows is Group screen sharing. This offers the possibility to share the entire screen or a single application window with other participants on a conference call.

To start the sharing users will simply need to hit the + menu during a call and select the “share my screen” option from there. The feature is available with Skype Premium, and is accompanied by Group video calling and live chat customer support.

Skype 5.8 for Windows is available for download from Softpedia via this link.